Marchionne: the threat of a departure from Ferrari is real

Ferrari does not intend to let go of its privileged status within the paddock of the F1. The Prancing Horse still threatens to leave the discipline through its president Sergio Marchionne. The structure of Maranello remains well involved since it continues to supply its engines and the Fiat-Chrysler Automobiles group has just signed a partnership with Sauber F1 Team with its brand Alfa Romeo.

“Our position is clear. Sauber deal expires in 2020, just in case Ferrari isn't around afterwards, indicated the Italian businessman. This possibility is serious. The differences are not small, but Chase (Carey, Formula One Group president) and I believe we can find common ground for the good of the sport. »

Sergio Marchionne protests against the idea of ​​returning to simpler technical regulations in 2021 in terms of engines which would notably have more elements in common.

“We have been very clear that Ferrari cannot give up. The importance of technology development is essential for us. We can't make cars so equal that we can't recognize them technologically. We have redoubled our efforts to find a solution with Chase but we have not given up on our objectives. »

The threats from Sergio Marchionne do not yet seem too worrying according to Christian Horner, the Team Principal of Red Bull Racing, which is based on the recent agreement signed between Sauber F1 Team and Alfa Romeo.

“(Alfa Romeo) is under the same roof. I find it hard to believe they brought in Alfa Romeo to make Ferrari go away in a few years, he commented to the Reuters agency. For me this is proof that F1 is working well because they would not have made this choice otherwise. F1 needs Ferrari and Ferrari needs F1. »